Misinformation and propaganda are proliferating across social media and in politics around the world, and it can be frustrating to see people being sucked in by what seems to – quite obviously – be nonsense.
But sometimes, we need people who are dedicated to really pulling apart that misinformation to provide context and data and facts to give us, and others, a clearer idea of what is accurate and what is a lie. This can also help us to argue our point more effectively with others, too!
Thankfully, there are podcasts that thrive on doing precisely this. They debunk viral claims and loud, often self-appointed, spokespeople, with actual research.
And if you, like me, are struggling to cope with the influx of fakery, you may just find it satisfying and informative to listen to one or more of them.
So here are some recommendations of places to start.
Knowledge Fight
This is one of my all-time faves, and the relationship between Dan and Jordan is just as compelling as Dan’s meticulous expertise in the horror that is radio host Alex Jones.
I’ve raved about this podcast on Global Comment before, so click here for a more comprehensive overview of this show.
The Know Rogan Experience
The Know Rogan Experience does with Joe Rogan what Knowledge Fight does with Alex Jones. Hosts Cecil and Marsh take apart Rogan and his guests with incisive skills gained from years of skeptical podcasting between them.
A Bit Fruity with Matt Bernstein
In A Bit Fruity, host Matt Bernstein and frankly excellent guests look at what’s going on in the culture wars and tear apart the bollocks with humour and a Extremely Online perspective that even I, also Extremely Online, learn from every episode.
Manosphere: Debunked
In Manosphere: Debunked, Aileen and Dan look at common claims among men’s rights activists and misogynists and takes them apart.
QAA Podcast
Formerly QAnon Anonymous, QAA Podcast sees Julian, Travis and Jake, with regular guests, examining and critiquing conspiracy theories and online nonsense.
The Mary Trump Podcast
With a pretty unique view of her uncle Donald, Mary Trump is perfectly positioned to provide commentary on the outlook and motivations of the terrifying US president.
Whereas a lot of Trump-based podcasts can be a bit repetitive and overly speculative, Mary Trump speaks with convincing authority and provides explanations for some of the more baffling things Donald does.
Skeptics with a K / Friendly Atheist Podcast / The European Skeptics Podcast / Conspirituality / Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe
Podcasts devoted to scepticism and critical thinking can be excellent resources when it comes to debunking viral claims. Not only do the five podcasts mentioned above do this regularly, they have also taught me a lot about improving my own critical thinking skills in daily life.